About Domestic Violence

Domestic violence is a devastating and widespread problem that causes suffering and loss to victims, witnesses and bystanders in communities across the country. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 1 in 4 women will report experiencing abuse over the course of a lifetime. Similarly, studies indicate that in the LGBQ/T community, approximately 1 in 4 people will be abused by their partner.

According to the CDC, survivors of domestic violence are more likely to experience chronic health issues, such as heart disease, asthma and substance abuse. Research also indicates that domestic violence is linked to reproductive health concerns, including increased sexually transmitted infections, miscarriage and sexually risky behavior.

Domestic violence is an epidemic. It affects people in every community – regardless of gender identity, age, economic status, race, sexual orientation, nationality, ability, or religion.

In an abusive relationship, one person uses a pattern of coercive behaviors to gain and maintain power and control over their partner.

Tactics abusers use to control their partners may include:

Put-downs, name-calling and emotional abuse

Jealousy and possessiveness

Isolation from family and friends

Manipulation of children and family members

Financial exploitation, including stealing money, damaging property and interfering with work or school